UNN Graduate Drama: Minister Nnachi Fights Back Over Certificate Controversy
In a dramatic twist to the ongoing certificate saga, Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnachi, has called out his alma mater, the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), demanding the release of his academic transcript amidst swirling allegations of certificate forgery.
Speaking through his spokesman, Dr. Robert Ngwu, at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the embattled minister presented compelling evidence to counter the forgery claims that have threatened his position since his 2023 appointment. Nnachi proudly displayed his 1985 graduation brochure, featuring his photo and name as “Nnaji Uchenna G” alongside his fellow graduates, as well as an official letter from the current Registrar, Dr. Mrs. Celine Ngozi Nnebedum, confirming his 1981 admission and 1985 graduation.
The plot thickened when questions arose about the name discrepancy between “Nnaji Uchenna G” in the brochure and “Geoffrey Uchechukwu Nnaji” in official records. Brushing off concerns, the minister’s team explained that such variations are common with Igbo names, which often carry similar meanings.
What’s particularly intriguing is the minister’s allegation of political interference. He claims that UNN issued two contradicting statements about his graduation – one confirming his credentials in 2023, and another in May 2025 denying any record of his graduation. Nnachi didn’t mince words, suggesting that this sudden about-face was orchestrated to please a governor seeking to enhance their political position at his expense.
Taking matters into his own hands, the minister has now launched legal action against the vice chancellor and university management, claiming they’re attempting to tamper with his academic records for political gains. As a 1985 graduate with a second-class lower degree in Microbiology/biochemistry, Nnachi maintains that the university has no right to withhold his transcript or question his academic achievements.
The academic-political drama continues to unfold, with all eyes now on UNN’s next move in this high-stakes certificate controversy.
